The Federal Bureau of Investigation-Jacksonville Division announced today that one minor was rescued, and 27 adult prostitutes and three pimps and their associates were arrested as part of Operation Cross Country X, which took place in Jacksonville and Pensacola from October 13 to 15, 2016.

Operation Cross Country is an annual nationwide effort to combat underage human trafficking. This was the 10th and largest iteration of the FBI-led initiative, which took place in 106 cities across the United States and, for the first time, in several countries around the world.

The FBI Jacksonville Division operation included the cooperation of multiple state and local law enforcement partnering agencies including the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, Pensacola Police Department, Gulf Breeze Police Department, Panama City Police Department, and the Panama City Beach Police Department.

“Operation Cross Country aims to shine a spotlight into the darkest corners of our society that seeks to prey on the most vulnerable of our population,” said FBI Director James Comey. “As part of this effort, we are not only looking to root out those who engage in the trafficking of minors, but, through our Office of Victim Assistance, we offer a lifeline to minors to help them escape a from a virtual prison no person ever deserves.”

Operations took place in a number of locations, including hotels, truck stops, and street corners. Minors recovered during an arrest are connected with state protective services and victim assistance. Depending on the level of need, a law enforcement officer and, if available, an FBI Victim Specialist will accompany the survivor to obtain these services. Any adult arrested pursuant to state charges will be processed by state and local law enforcement partners assisting in Operation Cross Country.